Phase 6: Urban Challenges

A guide dog mobility instructor trains a guide dog on a city sidewalk with a passing light rail car in the background.

Obedience and Distraction Training
Continues as in phase 5.

Advanced Guidework Training
Dogs work in both residential areas without sidewalks and downtown urban areas with challenging environments. Focus on working the dogs at a pace and pull that is appropriate for a client.

Introduction of Revolving Doors

Platform Edge Intro and Exposure Work
Dogs learn to avoid significant drop-offs that mimic subway and rail platform edges.

Obstacle Course Progression
Continues as in phase 5.

Pre-Matches for Select Clients
Dogs are identified for clients with special needs or specific requirements or requests in a guide.

Socialization Programs
Canine welfare training technicians (CWTTs) continue to focus on kennel enrichment and relaxing time away from guidework lessons (community run, grooming, play sessions, campus walks, dog massage, Reiki).